Human Remains Discovered in Remote Wooded Area of Ruidoso Downs During Fire Mitigation Work in Lincoln County NM

RUIDOSO DOWNS, N.M. — The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office is investigating the discovery of human remains found Wednesday, July 8, 2026, in a heavily wooded area near Pine Springs Road.

According to a post from Lincoln County Sheriff Michael Wood, deputies responded around 11:30 a.m. at the request of the Ruidoso Downs Police Department, which asked the Sheriff's Office to assume primary jurisdiction. A work crew clearing trees and brush as part of a "Wildland-Urban Interface" (WUI) fire reduction project located the remains of what appears to be an adult male in an advanced stage of decomposition.

The scene was processed by investigators, and the remains were turned over to the New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator. That office will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death and attempt to identify the decedent.

Local media, reported the remains were found behind the Best Western Pine Springs Inn. Undersheriff Alex Trujillo noted the discovery by landscapers working in the area.

No further details on the identity or circumstances have been released. Authorities have not indicated suspicion of foul play at this early stage, pending the medical examiner's findings. This discovery comes amid ongoing regional efforts to reduce wildfire risks through vegetation management in the Lincoln County area, which has faced significant fire threats in recent years.

Anyone with information regarding this matter is urged to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office at 575-648-2341 and ask for Detective Bryce Bailey.

The investigation remains active. AlamogordoTownNews.org and KALHRadio.org will provide updates as more official information becomes available from the Sheriff's Office or the Office of the Medical Investigator.

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